Opportunity Awards

Opportunity awards allow students to seize the day and strive to do more than they ever thought possible. It offers the ability to enhance the experience of a student and go beyond their academic studies.

Investment in our students is vital – from developing high aspirations to obtaining employability skills to propel their career forwards. This fund provides life-changing awards – examples range from attending a once in a lifetime placement in Texas, presenting at a conference overseas, or being able to attend an interview in a smart outfit and getting that job; it is giving the students the knowledge that we are invested in their future.

One example of alumni giving back is Inspired Film and Video's founding members - from volunteering time to mentor students, to being judges at the annual GradEx event, and also providing a financial prize to the student who pitches the best idea for their final year project. 

“It gave me the opportunity to meet researchers and build my network in the biomechanics research sector. To be able to attend this seminar and to be around all these amazing people meant everything to me.”

- Szilvia

Attended the Congress of the International Society of Biomechanics in Calgary, Canada.

“The aim of the trip was for me to get more experience in the field of pathology and medicine as well as put into practice elements of learning from my degree. It has inspired me to push for the career I have dreamed of and pursue forensic pathology by going to medical school.” 

- Dani

Shadowed doctors conducting post-mortems, and attended the Annual Conference in Forensic and Paediatric Pathology in Atlanta, Georgia.


“Appearing at that showcase opened a lot of doors for me as an artist, and I was invited back to the same festival in 2018 – this time as a paid artist. Thanks to this increased visibility, I have gone on to perform at several high-profile events.” 

- Lorraine
Travelled to Nigeria to showcase at one of Africa’s biggest music festivals.


Frequently Asked Questions

How is the opportunity award different to a bursary and scholarship?

Opportunity awards are open to students who require financial support to enhance their skills, attend a life changing experience, or obtain their dream job - they are not based on specific criteria such as household income and are reviewed on a case by case basis throughout the year. 

Can I create a general Opportunity Award?

Yes - all donations to the Horizon Fund support the Opportunity Awards. If there is a specific area you would like to donate to, please get in touch with the team to discuss this further and we can help best direct your donation to help students. 

Are there any considerations to creating an Opportunity Award?

If you are considering creating an opportunity award, we ask that you consider the following areas of student support:

1) Is there a particular level of degree that you would like to support?

  • Foundation degree (Typically 1 year)
  • Undergraduate degree (Typically 3-4 years)
  • Master or similar taught postgraduate degree (Typically 1 year if full-time)
  • Postgraduate research degree or PhD (Typically 3-4 years)

2) Is there a particular opportunity area you would like to support?

  • Research support
  • GradEx or Art and Design show prize
  • Attendance at a conference (international or national)
  • Employability support (e.g., Travel to interviews, interview clothing, placements)
  • Another opportunity area not listed above

I still have a question.

Please contact the Development team and we would be happy to discuss your queries.